Hoitoryhmään

Hoitoryhmä refers to a multidisciplinary team in Finnish health and social care that coordinates and delivers care for a patient or group of patients. The concept emphasizes collaborative work across professions to address medical, functional, social and psychological needs. In hospital settings, in primary care, or in long-term care facilities, hoitoryhmä typically brings together professionals such as nurses, physicians, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, psychologists, and care assistants. The exact composition depends on the care context and patient needs.

The core responsibilities of a hoitoryhmä include assessing needs, developing and updating a care plan, coordinating services from different providers, ensuring continuity of care, involving patients and families in decision-making, monitoring progress, and planning transitions such as discharge or transfer to another level of care. The group aims to work toward cohesive, person-centered outcomes rather than isolated tasks.

Organization and processes often involve regular meetings, shared documentation in electronic health records or care plans, and clear communication channels. A lead clinician or care coordinator may help guide the team, ensure accountability, and facilitate collaboration across disciplines.

Benefits and challenges are commonly discussed in relation to hoitoryhmät. Potential benefits include improved continuity of care, reduced duplication of work, more holistic assessment, and higher patient satisfaction. Challenges can include coordinating schedules across professionals, time and resource constraints, differences in professional cultures, and ensuring effective information sharing while maintaining confidentiality.

Context and terminology vary across settings. In some cases related terms such as multidisciplinary teams or care pathways are used to describe similar collaborative approaches. The concept of a hoitoryhmä supports integrated, patient-centered planning and execution of care in Finnish health and social services.